The North-West University (NWU) Eagles will aim to move one step closer to defending their Varsity Netball title when they face UP-Tuks in the semi-final on Monday, 21 September 2026.

The knockout clash brings together two strong sides with one clear goal: a place in the Varsity Netball final. For the NWU, the focus is on staying composed, protecting possession and delivering a consistent performance for the full 60 minutes.

Head coach Elsunet du Plessis expects a tough battle against Tuks. She says there is little room for error at this stage of the competition.
“Tuks is a quality side and we expect a very competitive semi-final. At this stage of the competition, every team is capable of winning on the day,” says Elsunet.

She says the NWU will focus on its own strengths and execute its game plan under pressure.

“For us, the focus will be on our own performance, staying disciplined, executing our game plan and making good decisions under pressure. We will need to be consistent for the full 60 minutes and make the most of the opportunities we create.”

The Eagles have used lessons from the pool stages to sharpen their preparations for the knockout encounter.

Elsunet says the team has shown good form during the competition, but consistency remains vital.

“We have had some very good passages of netball, but consistency throughout the match remains important. We are focusing on looking after possession, being more clinical with our opportunities and maintaining our defensive pressure.”

Captain Vivian Venancio says the players are focused and determined ahead of the semi-final.

“Our expectation is to go out there, play our own game and trust the work we have put in throughout the season,” says Vivian.

“We know what we are capable of, so it’s about staying focused and hopefully coming away with the victory.”

The match will also have a personal edge for Vivian as she faces her sister on the opposing side.

“It is definitely special competing against my sister, especially in a game of this magnitude, but once I step onto the court, I put the family connection aside because I am here for one job,” she says.

For the Eagles, family ties will take a back seat when the first whistle sounds. Their attention will be firmly on Tuks and the chance to secure another Varsity Netball final appearance.

The NWU Eagles are ready to face UP-Tuks in the semi-final.